I must continue on my way today

Readings: 1^st: Eph 6:10-20; Ps 143; Gos: Lk 13:31-35

This brief reflection was written by Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans). He is a missionary in Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment. He is the Chancellor of the Dioceses of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico; the Parish Priest of Parroquia la Resurrección del Senor, Canóvanas and the Major Superior of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans), Circumscription of Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. For more details and comments contact him at:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today, Thursday of the thirtieth week of ordinary time, Luke presents a dialogue between Christ and the Pharisees.

The advice of the Pharisees was a tactical rejection and indirect effort to expulse Christ from their territory. Of course, they were right to say, “Herod wants to kill you.” However, they are part of the plot to kill Jesus.

Christ’s response was very courageous. Of course, he knows the threat against him and his mission. However, he will not allow any such threat to deter him from fulfilling the will of his Father.

Proclaiming the good news comes with risks and does not depend on what pollical leaders say or want. So, we must keep working and trusting in God’s protection while being careful at the same time.

God, the owner of the mission, determines the time and end of our mission. hence Christ insists, “I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.” He has a duty and knows where it will become to an end.

Christ recalls the treatment his predecessors received from the authorities as a way of reminding them that he knows their plan for him too. He was not afraid to die like his predecessors.

Despite all these threats, Christ was passionate about the salvation of Jerusalem, his homeland. So, we must not be comfortable with the status quo, especially when our people are in danger because of their stubbornness and unbelief.

As ministers and God’s messengers, we must speak out and pray for our country and people’s salvation. Even though his death was imminent, Jesus, because of his great love, continued to care for people who were suffering. To continue to persevere in doing good in the face of great difficulties is a great grace.

So, today let us ask God to always grant us this type of grace of perseverance in his mission, especially during difficult moments, that we may remain courageous and focused on his mission.

Peace be with you

Maranatha!